Jefferies has retained the sort of character that many other firms sacrificed in the race for size. In the wave of consolidation that swept through the industry at the end of the 1990s and early 2000s, many of its competitors were swallowed by commercial or investment banks....

– The Banker, "Success Without a Name" August 2007

Jefferies is one of the few firms that can advise on either side of a deal, arrange debt and, years later when a portfolio company matures, underwrite the IPO.

– Buyouts, "Moving Swiftly Up the League Tables" April 2007

Jefferies plays multiple roles, everything from adviser to buyers or sellers and managing leveraged finance deals to co-managing IPOs and advising M&A transactions. Such a wide array of roles means that Jefferies can arrange financings for a young business, then take the company public, forging a long-term relationship....

– Investment Dealers' Digest, "Here Comes Jefferies"
September 2007